Runway reopens at Mobile Downtown Airport

Primary runway had been closed since May for rehabilitation

Airport officials cut the ribbon on upgraded runway.

The longest runway at Mobile Downtown Airport (BFM) is set to reopen after a $9 million rehabilitation. The runway has been closed since May 10.

Funded by the Consolidated Appropriates Act of 2020 and by Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Security Act (CARES Act) funds, the project included:

  • Asphalt runway mill and overlay (over 125,000 square yards / 19,000 tons)
  • Replacement of the centerline & TDZ lights
  • Replacement of the edge lighting
  • Remove and replacement of all markings with reflective beads
  • 100,000 square yards of pavement grooving

“This was a vast project that will have a lasting impact on the community and the local economy for years to come,” said Chris Curry, Mobile Airport Authority president. “We are very excited to have this immediate upgrade to our facilities at the Mobile Downtown Airport.”

Airport Authority Chairman Elliot Maisel added: “This investment has significantly improved our infrastructure at the Mobile Downtown Airport. Not only will our tenants benefit from the rehabilitated runway, but this project will also continue our mission of providing premium air service as we prepare to transition all commercial air service to the Mobile Downtown Airport by summer of 2024.”

As the project started last spring, Curry noted that it was helpful to get the runway upgrade completed now, so it wouldn’t impact commercial air service after the move.

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For a close-up look at the new runway, there’s still time to sign up for the Mobile Airport Authority’s BFM 5K on the Runway and Fun Run, which is set for Saturday, October 23, at 8 a.m. Get more details on the run at BFM5K.com.

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